As the speed of the shifting numbers slow down, they soon set in the lower values as it appears my parameters seemed rather weak. However, there are a few that seemed reasonable.
"Oo, I see, I see. These numbers will definitely get you by."
With most in the 20's and 30's, only two seem to be in the 50's. I'd say it's average at best, though of course I don't know the scale of these.
"Are they bad?"
I could only ask someone who's well inverse as I look further into the strength parameter which affects how much item weight I'm able to carry and physical prowess. Like swinging a sword I suppose.
"Let's say it's a good start. You definitely have better results than me when I first got here. Once you obtain enough experience, you'll level up and it'll raise those parameters, given how much you train in their field."
"I see.. Well I can't expect to have high results now can I?"
"Mm, it's highly unlikely but it is possible. I heard one of the top Hero Candidates started off with triple digits in all fields. Though, I do say Candidate but he's the one responsible for the Demon Lord's death, which ascended him into becoming the first initial Hero."
"A Hero, hmm... Well, I was never good at things the first time I picked them up."
Though I can't say I'm not disappointed. I guess even in this world, I'm still relatively the same, just a bit fitter.
"Mm, but don't let it get you down. It's a lot better to have things to strive towards, right? Almost all Hero Candidates had to start from the ground up. Oh, and here's my stats."
Opening up her window beside mine, my values pale in comparison. With most around the 2000 mark, her agility, dexterity and strength are little above 3000 each.
"Wow, that's impressive."
"Hehe, well you know.~"
Being bashful, she doesn't seem like she'll talk up her abilities as she closes her stats and places distance between us.
"Okay now that's taken care of, hmm... Would you like an escort back into the city? It's relatively safe here, not too many monsters around here are aggressive but you never know. I feel somewhat responsible."
"I-I'd appreciate it. I still don't really understand what's going on so I was hoping for you to explain a few things to me, if you don't mind."
"Mm, great! I don't mind, I was planning to drop this quest off and take it easy for the rest of the day."
Taking the lead, she moves through the shrubs as I stick close to her.
...
Soon entering the city, it appeared that if one wants to enter, they'd require a permit. However, it'd seem that Rosette took care of that, the guard in armor appears to know her well. He also stated for me to learn by her example. Whatever that means.
Seeing the city streets, it's a bit dated compared to where I'm from, however, it's a little refreshing. With only creatures that resemble horses pulling carriages that seem to be their form of transportation, there's no gas fumes in the air. Though, the horses... They sure are a lot feathered than what I remember, perhaps its better to call them large birds.
"Hehe, that's the exact look I had. I can never forget that."
"It's different, a lot different from where I'm from..."
With roads built from stone and buildings also constructed from stone and timber, it's fascinating to say the least.
Am I truly in a fantasy world?
"Aisengard may be smaller than other cities, but its comfy and has all your needs.~ Hehe, come on this way. The Adventurer's Hub isn't far."
"R-Right."
Distracted by the new experience, I was falling a little off track as Rosebelle reminded me to stick close to her.
Entering a small building, a few tables and chairs spread out from the left as the right is an open space before a counter in the wall that connects to another room. In the middle is a large bulletin board with a few sheets pinned against it.
"This is the place, it's not as large as other cities since not too many Hero Candidates visit, but its just as effective as anywhere else."
"Oh I see."
The place is basically devoid of life.
"Mm, it sometimes does get packed but probably not today. You can take a seat if you like. Though, it's probably best if you come with me. I think you'll be coming here a bunch of times for starters."
"A-Ah, okay."
I was just about to take a seat as the walk wasn't exactly a short one. Heading to the counter, she rings the bell and soon a lady steps in.
"I'm back.~"
"Oh, Rosebelle! That was quick, have you taken care of that Laoka?"
"Yup, it's been put to rest, and I had a bit of help with it."
She looks to me as I take it as my cue to straighten up.
"Oh."
Looking to me in surprise, I raise my hand to introduce myself.
"H-Hello, I'm-"
"Though, I'm sure you could've taken care of it yourself."
Giggling into her hand, I too could agree with that. All I achieved was getting my hand bitten off. Though it did heal up before we reached the city gates. It's amazing what bandages can do. But what's more amazing is that it regrew to begin with. In the end Rosebelle was right, this world doesn't work like the one I'm from.
"Oh no no, that laoka was unusually quick on its feet. Something must've happened near Helmsburg."
"That's right, or so I heard. But I'm sure by now the issue's been resolved."
Hearing a familiar sound rustling, she places two sets of coins against the counter. Mostly silver with three golds. She then also places something that resembles jerky beside it, much to Rosebelle's surprise.
"Just a little helping, you know her, always make more than she needs."
"Hehe, the same usual Aunt.~ Thanks as always, Mama."
"Oh no, it's fine. Just looking out for my favourite."
Separating the pile, Rosebelle hands a few coins over to me as I stare at her.
"You did help me after all, it's only fair that you're rewarded too."
"B-But, I didn't-"
Dropping the coins before I have the chance to finish, I catch them in my hands.
"I'm not going to take no for an answer.~ Oh, and have this as well."
Shoving the jerky in my mouth, I notice that she too has one hanging from her mouth as she tears half of it off.
"It's pretty good stuff.~ It's not too dry and the flavours all there."
At the point in contact against my tongue, the taste of a strange spice fills my mouth. It's not unpleasant, but I can't help but wonder what it is. Nonetheless, it does taste good, sort of like pork jerky, except a bit sweeter.
"Hehe, I take it that you like it.~ Thanks again, Mama! I'll drop by again tomorrow for more requests."
I bow just a slight for courtesy reasons, but she doesn't bat an eye. For some reason, it doesn't seem like I'm welcomed.
"Oh, you're already done for the day?"
"Yup, I was planning to take it easy for the rest of the day. And I said I'd show Akira around the city."
Rosebelle gestures to me as the woman finally makes eye contact, if only for a brief moment.
"Oh that's right. Get this, he's a Hero Candidate too! Just awhile ago I witnessed his rebirth."
"Hm, is that so?"
Showing a brief smile, I'm able to detect any genuine feelings behind it.
"Yup, there hasn't been any recently, right? You know, I bet he did something extra extravagant.~ Anyways, take care, Mama!"
Just about to follow her out, the woman suddenly calls for me as she tells Rosebelle to wait outside. She waited for a short moment before stepping out.
Wondering if she has a problem with me, if feels like I'm about to be scolded.
"Y-Yes..?"
"Don't you yes me, and stand up straight when I'm talking to you."
"Y-Ye, I-I mean, r-roger, Ma'm!"
"Hahh..."
Heaving a sigh, she pulls out a stick before snapping it between her fingers as the end lights up. Placing it against her mouth, it seems like some form of cigarette.
"A Hero Candidate, hmm? Well, I take it that you'd be here often if you want to work your fill. But listen, I'll be frank. If you so much as to think about taking advantage of her, you will regret it. Am I clear?"
"All clear!"
"Good."
...
"Oh, all done? Then let's get going before rush hour hits."
"Y-Yeah."
Taking the lead, I follow beside her.
During our walk, I could only think about what the woman told me; about taking advantage of Rosebelle. But why would I do that? No... that's not it. Clearly from a bystanders point, I'm doing just that. Having her show me around the city, to reward me for doing nothing and now it appears we're about to grab a bite. Looking to her, she looks like she's enjoying herself and whenever our eyes meet, she'll smile as she continues to show me the sights on our way there.
"Aren't you going to ask what we walked about?"
"Hm? Oh, no not really. I mean I could imagine what happened. Oh, don't take advantage of her, don't make her cry. I haven't cried since I was a kid!"
"Y-Yeah, she said something like that..."
I suppose it was pretty obvious to her.
"Your mother's quite protective."
"Oh Rosebelle, there you are! Here, if my wife hears that I overstocked the shelves, she'll have my head, haha! So I was wondering if you could take a few of these with you."
Passing by a small store, the man hands her a few bottles filled with colourful liquids.
"Hehe, sure, I don't mind. Just make sure she doesn't hear that you're giving them away.~"
"She hasn't caught on yet! So long, Rosey."
Placing them into her pouch, we continue our walk as I begin to realise she's quite renowned around here. To the point that some people would call out to her, strike conversation and even offer her a few things.
"Sorry, what were we talking about? ...Oh, right. She's actually not my Mother. I died and well, you can get the rest."
Well, if she came into this world like me then... Wait does that mean all these people died and woke up here? No, that'd be absurd.
"Hehe, I only call her that because she does remind me of her."
As the mood turns gloomy, I'm reminded of my own circumstances. I wasn't living with any relatives, nor any loved ones. And despite leaving on a sour note with my parents who live in another country, I still care for them.
"Sorry."
I could only apologise as I'm sure it stirred up some bad memories.
"Oh no no, it's okay, you don't have to apologise! It's all in the past now, and my memories of back then is really fuzzy."
"Right... Thanks."
"Now you're thanking me? Hehe, silly.~"
...
"Okay, here we are, The Sleeping Ogre!"
"Sleeping Ogre..."
I felt lie I had to repeat it so I could process the name. In any case, don't Ogres diet contain people?
As she looks to me, I'm sure Rosebelle isn't a cannibal and I should feel bad just thinking that.
Stepping in, I'm immediately waft by a pleasant aroma as the place is chock full of people and noise.
"Ah, rush hour... I guess we did take awhile to get here. Nonetheless! Let's find a table, Akira."
I partially think I'm the one to blame for that, if it were just her, she would've made it earlier.
Passing by groups of people, we take a seat by a table fit for two by the wall.
"What'd you like, Akira? Since it's your first day, you can have whatever you like!"
"S-Sure, I mean... I'm all right with anything."
Taking the menu, the worlds alphabet's made up of symbols, it should be non-coherent, however, for some reason I'm able to read it like I've been taught this for years.
"Hehe, amazing isn't it?"
"Amazing?"
"You can read it, can't you? It's all nonsense to be honest, but your minds able to comprehend the shapes and patterns that automatically registers to what you're most knowledgeable in before applying."
I can't believe I have an automatic translator in my head at this surreal level.
"I'll umm, go with whatever you're having, Rosebelle."
"Oo, I'll be having the days special if that's okay with you. It's a simple grill with a side of pudding for dessert."
"A grill, hmm... That's fine with me."
"Hehe, okay.~"
...
As we get our orders, Rosebelle begins to explain about the state of this world. Where monsters roam in the wild, there are safe zones such as cities and towns that have a barrier built to keep them safe. However, not all places have these barriers as the cores that power them are a rarity. As Hero Candidates defeat monsters out in the wilderness, they'll obtain experience, once they've gained enough they'll level up. Though only Hero Candidates are granted this boon. While the original dwellers can fend off monsters on their own, there are only a distinct few that can keep up with them.
Originally Hero Candidates were called to this world if they've fulfilled a "Heroic" deed in their lifetime before death. They'd then serve a purpose to combat against the Demon Lord that once reigned terror throughout Elden. But since he's not of this world any longer, Hero Candidates either turn to living a normal life like the original dwellers, or turn to Adventuring; fulfilling requests and earn various rewards issued by either the HQ of the Adventurers Hub or a dweller.
"I see... So complete requests, and be rewarded for your efforts."
Sounds rather troublesome. As Rosebelle mentioned, since the Demon Lords defeat, there's no reason to summon any new Candidates. However, since I was called upon here, there must've been a mistake.
"Yup, that's basically what we do now.~ Hehe, it's not as grand as defeating the evil Demon Lord, but word does travel around of ones feats."
Whilst some parts resemble reality, there's another layer to this world and that's an AI. Sorta like a user interface in a game. Candidates become hailed as a legitimate Hero once they've fulfilled certain requirements.
"So the difference between Heroes and Candidates is just a title?"
"Precisely. It's basically a title that proves you're worthy and have been through hell for the sake of others. Self sacrifice is a necessity when becoming a Hero."
As my viewpoint has become bias due to the way Rosebelle's been treating me, I thought she was one of those Heroes, however, she said that she's still a Candidate.
"Self sacrifice, hmm..?"
In my world, doing so never really results in anything. Sometimes a few words of gratitude but that's about it. While it's wrong to do good deeds simply because you want to be rewarded, half the time it's not worth the hassle. If you're a nobody, you'll stay a nobody. But if you're already under a spotlight, you revered as a "Hero".
I guess being a Hero in this world is something you'd strive for.
"A Hero..."
Just hearing that word takes me back.
"Hehe, I too would like to be a Hero but I'm content with how things are now. Just getting by with some thrills here and there is enough for me."
"Is that right?"
Continuing to eat our food, I can't help but see a bit of myself in Rosebelle. Talking about Heroes and their stories, being hailed as one; romanticizing over them... I'm certain for her it's more than, like to be hero.
Perhaps there's something I'm not getting, something I'm missing.
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